Action Quote by Allen W. Wood
“We cannot predict the effects of our actions, especially our collective actions over generations or centuries, to use instrumental reasoning toward these big final ends to tell us what we ought to do.”
About This Quote
Source Article: The Limits of Instrumental Reasoning, 2015
Predicting long‑term consequences of collective actions is impossible, so instrumental reasoning cannot fully dictate moral duties.
In simple terms: We can’t predict far‑future effects, limiting rational moral guidance.
Key Takeaway
Accept uncertainty in long‑term ethical planning.
Themes
ethics
uncertainty
collective action
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- environmental planning
- generational justice
Key Concepts
instrumental reasoning
future studies
philosophy of action
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we act responsibly amid uncertainty?
- What safeguards replace predictive reasoning?
A Different Perspective
Relying solely on prediction may ignore present harms.
